Business conditions are starting to improve across the country, as firms respond positively to the cut to the official cash rate and the federal budget announcement. NAB's Monthly Business Survey for May shows that conditions were up 3 points, putting the result higher than the long-run average.

The launch of a new government project could be just what Australia's small businesses need to begin trading on a much larger scale. A number of recommendations have been put forward by the government, which will improve standards for how both data and information is distributed across the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).

Investing overseas could be just what the Australian economy needs in order to thrive, but it seems that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are failing to recognise the advantages. This is according to Bentleys' The Voice of Australia Business Survey, which highlights a lack of understanding the in the sector.

There are several key indicators that suggest how well the nation's businesses are performing, and their willingness to recruit staff is one of them. After all, if companies are in a good position, it's more likely that they will be looking to increase their headcount.

Buying online has already found favour with Australian consumers, and the latest data shows a growing preference for internet-based spending. The latest Online Retail Sales Index from National Australia Bank (NAB) reveals that during the 12 months to April this year, consumers spent $16.9 billion online.